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Ask the TrainerChris Antonio

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09-05-06// Hamstring Cramps
How do I avoid hamstring cramps?

Chris:
I rarely work my hamstrings and calves because I constantly cramp up in these areas. Every time I try to add these muscle groups to my routine I have the same issues. I’ll do a couple of sets and then the cramps will start. These muscle groups have never been my favorite body parts to work but I realize I should do them anyway. Do you have any suggestions on how I can solve this problem? Have you ever heard of this problem before?

Jenna B.

Jenna:
In my opinion there are two main reasons why people experience cramping in their hamstrings. The first reason is that many people refuse to stretch them properly. Most fitness buffs spend an average of sixty to ninety minutes lifting weights and doing cardio but spend less than five minutes stretching their muscles to prepare for their workouts.

As we grow older our hamstrings and can become tight and inflexible. This makes are bodies more susceptible to cramps and more serious injuries. Genetics also play a key role because some people are born with shorter hamstrings than others making them more likely to become tight. There is even scientific evidence that hamstrings tend to shorten if they are not stretched on a regular basis. Therefore it is very important to incorporate stretching into your workout routine.

The second reason why I believe people experience this problem is they fail to include these body parts into their workout. 

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